The red wine antioxidant resveratrol prevents cardiomyocyte injury following ischemia-reperfusion via multiple sites and mechanisms

Abstract

The objective was a comprehensive investigation of the mechanisms and sites of resveratrol cardioprotection during and following ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury, and to determine whether direct preservation of cardiomyocytes is an important site of cardioprotection. We now provide the first definitive evidence that resveratrol specifically protects cardiomyocytes from I-R injury via a combination of suppression of superoxide levels and activation of potassium channels. This protection is apparent whether resveratrol is present for the full duration of the insult or only on recovery. In addition, resveratrol improved postischemic recovery of left ventricular contractile function, attenuated..